In a ceremony steeped in history and marking a significant leap forward in maritime capabilities, the Pakistan Navy proudly commissioned its first Hangor-class attack submarine, PNS Hangor, in Sanya, China. The event was graced by the presence of President Asif Ali Zardari and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, underscoring the importance of this milestone.
President Asif Ali Zardari attends commissioning PNS HANGOR, reaffirming that stability requires effective deterrence. The advanced submarine strengthens Pakistan’s maritime defence, protects economic lifelines & reflects strategic partnership with China. pic.twitter.com/xcsOt6Fa75
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) April 30, 2026
President Zardari hailed the commissioning as a historic moment in the Navy’s modernization journey, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to a strong and credible defense posture. He emphasized the nation’s ability to safeguard its sovereignty, protect its maritime interests, and secure its vital economic lifelines. “This advanced submarine strengthens Pakistan’s maritime defense, protects economic lifelines and reflects our strategic partnership with China,” the President stated.
Admiral Ashraf highlighted the increasing threats to global trade and energy security posed by disruptions at critical maritime choke points. He emphasized the need for technologically advanced naval forces to maintain a stable and rule-based maritime order. He noted that the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, advanced sensors, and Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, will be instrumental in preserving maritime order and stability in the region. “These submarines will play a pivotal role in deterring aggression and ensuring the security of vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region,” Admiral Ashraf affirmed.
The Hangor-class submarines carry a legacy of valor, named after the original PNS Hangor, which etched its name in naval history during the 1971 war by sinking the Indian frigate INS Khukri – a feat that marked the first submarine kill of a warship since World War II. “PNS/M HANGOR will carry this illustrious legacy forward, as this is an important milestone for Pakistan Navy that will bolster our maritime defence and modernise our fleet with cutting-edge technology,” the Naval Chief stated. The original Hangor now proudly stands on display at the Pakistan Maritime Museum in Karachi, a testament to its historic service.
The commissioning ceremony also symbolized the enduring and enriching friendship between Pakistan and China, with senior officials from both navies in attendance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir extended their heartfelt congratulations to the nation and the Navy on achieving this historic milestone.
According to Admiral Ashraf, the Pakistan Navy is poised to induct a total of eight Hangor-Class submarines, further solidifying its maritime defense capabilities. The launch of the first submarine in April 2024 has been followed by the scheduled launches of the second, third, and fourth submarines on March 15, August 15, and December 17 in 2025, respectively.
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